Smart Lunch Smart Kid

Fellow Atlanta Lions participated in the Smart Lunch, Smart Kid program July 15-19, 2013. Read on to learn more.

Action Ministries’ Childhood Nutrition Initiative

Smart Lunch, Smart Kid – Action Ministries’ child nutrition program – brings nutritious meals to children in need and makes it possible for partners to make a difference in the lives of children in their local communities.

Every day in Georgia, more than 800,000 students receive a free or reducedprice lunch. Sadly, when the school year ends, so does their access to this important meal.

Research shows proper nutrition in childhood plays an important role in a young person’s physical and mental growth. It can contribute to a child’s overall health and well-being and help them grow to their full potential.

According to a recent national study, Georgia ranks sixth in the nation for child food insecurity (limited or uncertain access to adequate food) with more than 700,000 children in the state at risk of hunger.

Many children at risk of hunger rely on school meals as their primary source of nutrition. Of the 800,000 who receive free or reduced-price lunches at school only 13.6 percent (just over 100,000 children) participate in summer meals programs in Georgia.

Action Ministries is committed to ensuring that Georgia’s children have access to the food they need to learn and grow – especially during the summer months.

How does Smart Lunch, Smart Kid work?

Using the most up-to-date data available, a local Action Ministries coordinator identifies communities of greatest need and determines suitable distribution sites.

The local coordinator provides training to community partners and volunteers receive training on how to prepare lunches which are assembled following an easy-to-use menu of smart food choices.

The coordinator then works with local volunteers to deliver healthy sack lunches to around 400 children in each area who are not served by other programs.

How can I become involved in Smart Lunch, Smart Kid?

Action Ministries is pleased to offer various levels of involvement.

Organizations can serve as Host Sites.

Volunteers can join together to make, package and deliver meals. All can give of their time and their personal gifts.

Welcome to the Atlanta Lions Club

Complimentary Valet is available on John Portman Blvd. Please contact us if you would like to be a luncheon guest.

Besides club luncheons members participate in regular community service projects that are important to the club. For more information on our service projects and club events please review our News postings page.